If you’re a resident of Pennsylvania and a new parent like me, you’re probably fantasizing about a quiet weekend getaway with your partner—as long as it’s within reasonable driving distance of the babysitter. But you don’t have to be a native of the Keystone State or a parent to enjoy romantic getaways in Pennsylvania. In fact, many of the region’s best couples getaways and resorts draw people from all over the world.
Romantic Weekend Getaways in Pennsylvania
Whether your idea of relaxation is a spa resort in the Poconos or a whirlwind weekend in the city, Pennsylvania has plenty of options for a getaway with your partner. Here are some of the most romantic options.
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1. Omni Bedford Springs Resort
Bedford, Pennsylvania
In the 1700s, Native Americans discovered natural springs in what’s now known as Bedford, Pennsylvania. In 1796, they shared their discovery with a man named Dr. John Anderson, who purchased the property and welcomed his patients to its bathing facilities and healing waters.
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Today, Omni Bedford Springs Resort is a AAA Four Diamond Hotel known for its Springs Eternal Spa with a Bedford Bath Ritual. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this romantic Pennsylvania hotel also features several dining experiences, an indoor pool, and bike rentals for exploring the nearby trails and downtown area. Dogs are welcome, too, with pet-friendly accommodations and amenities.
Fun Fact: The Omni Bedford Springs Resort is said to be haunted, and ghost tours are offered on select evenings.
2. The Ledges Hotel
Hawley, Pennsylvania
A former glass factory turned boutique hotel and restaurant in the Poconos, The Ledges Hotel is a great choice for couples on romantic getaways in Pennsylvania. Its restaurant, appropriately named Glass – wine. bar. kitchen, specializes in small plates and stunning views of the property’s cascading waterfalls, and accommodations include pet-friendly single rooms, one-bedroom suites and two-bedroom fully equipped suites.
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When you’re not sipping local beer in the courtyard or relaxing on one of the multi-tiered decks, get out on the water at Lake Wallenpaupack.
3. The Parador Inn
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
If you and your partner enjoy craft beer, Pittsburgh is the place for you. The second-largest city in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh houses some of the state’s top-rated breweries, including Brew Gentlemen, Church Brew Works (located in a former church), and Dancing Gnome. Wash all that beer down with a (big) bite to eat at Primanti Brothers, which serves the city’s most iconic sandwich: your choice of meat, provolone cheese, tomatoes, coleslaw, and French fries packed onto Italian bread.
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Other things to do in Pittsburgh include a visit to the Andy Warhol Museum, a ride on the Duquesne Incline for stellar views of the city, and a trip out to the Laurel Highlands (about an hour away) to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stay at the historic Parador Inn, a converted nine-room Victorian mansion built in 1870 and infused with a Caribbean vibe. It’s a short walk to attractions like the National Aviary in Allegheny Commons Park, Rivers Casino, and the Andy Warhol Museum. And your couples getaway won’t be disturbed by younger kids here, because guests must be at least 14 years or older.
4. The Hotel Hershey
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Melt into a chocolate-infused massage at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, or opt for a traditional facial instead. Before or after your treatment, enjoy lunch at The Oasis Lounge, relax in the pool, or take a deep breath in the Aromatherapy Inhalation Room.
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While you’re in town for your romantic getaway, enjoy beer, wine, and chocolate pairings at Hershey’s Chocolate World (in addition to the attraction’s free chocolate tour, of course), or head to Troegs Independent Brewing, widely known for its seasonal Mad Elf beer. You might also head to Hersheypark for a roller coaster ride and a sundae at The Chocolatier, a newly opened restaurant. (Just don’t tell the kids what they’re missing.)
5. The Inn at Bowman’s Hill
New Hope, Pennsylvania
The cute town of New Hope is home to the famed Bucks County Playhouse, where stars including Liza Minelli, Dick Van Dyke, and the late Grace Kelly have all performed. Go kayaking or tubing on the Delaware River, then tuck into The Salt House for a candle-lit dinner before a nightcap at Nektar Wine Bar.
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There’s no shortage of romantic hotels in New Hope, with options such as the The Inn at Bowman’s Hill, Ghost Light Inn, and the River House at Odette’s. While you’re in the area, be sure to cross the bridge into Lambertville, New Jersey, another charming town.
6. The Dolon House
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Couples will enjoy cocktails on the porch at the Asa Packer Mansion, catching a show at Penn’s Peak or The Mauch Chunk Opera House, or browsing the quirky shops in downtown Jim Thorpe. Whatever you choose for your romantic getaway, don’t miss a chance to explore Glen Onoko Falls at Lehigh Gorge State Park, a hiking trail with scenic views, the best one affording vistas of the valley below for those who can make it to the top.
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Located right across from the Opera House in the heart of the Jim Thorpe historic district, The Dolon House is a perfect setting for a romantic weekend without the kids. An 1888 mansion, the cozy inn is notable for details like its grand staircase, hard-carved woodwork, and stained glass windows.
7. The Inn at Leola Village
Leola, Pennsylvania
The Inn at Leola Village is a popular wedding venue in Lancaster County. You don’t have to be a newlywed to enjoy this Amish farm turned cozy resort, though. A AAA Four Diamond hotel, the inn features enchanting guest rooms and suites (some with whirlpool tubs), a full-service spa, seasonal outdoor pool, and an Italian restaurant (from which you can order room service or arrange a private dinner when you don’t feel like leaving your room).
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While you’re in the area, make a reservation at The Catacombs Restaurant at Bube’s Brewery, an underground, candle-lit romantic dining spot.
8. The Lodge at Woodloch
Hawley, Pennsylvania
Fair warning: The Lodge at Woodloch is not cheap. But a stay at this destination resort in the Poconos is worth every penny. All-inclusive rates cover three gourmet meals daily, group fitness classes, baking and cooking demonstrations, local excursions, and access to the state-of-the-art spa, which features Hydromassage WaterWalls, indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, and saunas. A menu of ultra-relaxing treatments is available as well (additional fees apply).
9. Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Skyline views from the spa? Yes, please! That’s one of the perks of a stay at the ultra-luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, Philadelphia’s first and only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel. For something extra-special, book Night Spa, a late-night couple’s massage with private access to the 57th floor pool and spa and stunning nighttime views of the city.
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Located in the heart of the city, the Four Seasons puts you close to date-worthy attractions including LOVE Park, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Barnes Foundation.
10. Nemacolin
Farmington, Pennsylvania
Located in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, the five-star, four-season Nemacolin resort is a destination in its own right. For couples on a romantic getaway, there’s an extravagant spa (where you have the option to enjoy a Couples Escape Day Package); a whopping 10 restaurants, including Lautrec, a Forbes five-star and AAA Five Diamond award-winning tasting restaurant; four bars and lounges; multiple swimming pools; and The Peak, a hub for all things outdoor adventure; and so much more.
There’s food news for families, too: Nemacolin is just as romantic as it is kid-friendly, so if you like it enough—and you definitely will—you may end up planning a return visit with the kids.
